Why are bats often considered pests?

Bats are often considered pests primarily because they can carry rabies, a serious viral disease that can be transmitted to humans and other animals through bites or scratches. This potential for disease transmission creates significant public health concerns, especially in areas where bats come into close contact with humans. Rabies is a life-threatening illness that affects the central nervous system, making the presence of bats particularly alarming in residential or populated areas.

The notion of bats being pests can also encompass other factors. For instance, while some may argue that their consumption of insects is beneficial for controlling insect populations, their presence in buildings can lead to undesirable situations such as noise, droppings, or even structural damage. Additionally, while bats are not known for destroying crops in a direct sense, they can pose a threat to agricultural settings by carrying diseases that might affect livestock or impact local ecosystems.

Thus, the concern about bats being pests is significantly amplified by their association with rabies, influencing public perception and the response of pest management services towards them.